Lead Pilot
Location: Keene, NH
About C&S Wholesale Grocers
C&S Wholesale Grocers, LLC, a leader in supply chain solutions and wholesale grocery supply, is seeking a highly experienced and skilled Lead Pilot to oversee and manage all aspects of its aviation operations. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in ensuring the safe, efficient, and high-quality delivery of essential goods, contributing directly to the company's mission of supporting local communities.
Position Overview
The Lead Pilot will assume primary responsibility for the direction and supervision of all flight crew members. This includes managing Captains, Second-in-Commands, and contractors, while upholding the highest standards of safety and operational excellence. In the absence of the Director of Aviation, the Lead Pilot will serve as the acting departmental manager.
Key Responsibilities
- Flight Operations & Pilot Duties: Maintain proficiency in at least two company aircraft types, performing line pilot duties as scheduled. Ensure flight quality standards are consistently met and that flight crews receive adequate support.
- Crew Management: Supervise and mentor Captains and Second-in-Commands, providing performance feedback, goal setting, and comprehensive management from recruitment to potential termination. Effectively manage third-party contractor Second-in-Commands. Ensure rigorous adherence to company policies, FAA regulations, and all applicable operating procedures. Maintain accurate passenger accounting and crew scheduling in compliance with all regulations.
- Safety & Training: Oversee pilot safety training and education programs, conducting quarterly flight checks and providing ongoing guidance. Actively participate in change management initiatives.
- Compliance & Reporting: Ensure precise weight and balance calculations, fuel management, and performance monitoring. Analyze deviation reports, identify trends, and implement corrective actions. Review flight records for accuracy. Maintain updated pilot materials and contribute to manual revisions. Conduct departmental audits and recommend improvements. Foster effective communication with flight crews, contractors, technicians, and scheduling personnel.
- Director of Aviation Support: Act as acting departmental manager during the Director's absence. Provide operational support to prevent delays or cancellations. Assist with budget forecasting and policy development. Collaborate with the safety officer in investigating and managing Safety Management System (SMS) reports.
Qualifications
- 10-15 years of experience.
- Bachelor's degree in Aviation (military or certified program).
- Minimum 7500 total flight hours, with 2500 hours in jet aircraft and at least one jet type rating.
- Valid Airline Transport Pilot License and Instrument Rating for operated aircraft categories.
- Type rating for at least two aircraft in the fleet (Falcon & Challenger 300 preferred; Bombardier Global also desirable).
- Qualification as Pilot-in-Command on at least one operated aircraft type.
- Exceptional communication skills (verbal and written).
- Ability to manage emergencies effectively.
- Extensive knowledge of Federal Aviation Regulations and safety procedures.
- Proven customer service skills.
- Demonstrated understanding of Flight Operations Manuals, Training Manuals, Standard Operating Procedures, and relevant civil aviation regulations.
- Ability to accommodate overnight and international travel.
Compensation & Benefits
C&S Wholesale Grocers offers a competitive compensation package including weekly pay, comprehensive benefits (medical, dental, vision) from day one, a company-matched 401k, paid time off, holiday pay, career progression opportunities, tuition reimbursement, employee wellness programs, and employee discounts.
Equal Opportunity Employer
C&S Wholesale Grocers is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer and considers qualified applicants without regard to race, color, creed, religion, ancestry, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected factor under federal, state, or local law. Working safely is a condition of employment. This job advertisement does not constitute a promise or guarantee of employment.